The Motorola Talkabout T189 is a no-frills phone, the least expensive (for an initial launch) in an already low-priced range.
At AU$359 the Talkabout provides a cheap avenue for purchasing carrier-independent. Purchased as part of a service contract you the economic advantages start to dillute. To purchase the phone through a Telstra service plan you'll pay a AU$29 subscription fee and AU$22 per month if you're willing to enter a 30 month agreement.
Despite the low price, the T189 can receive ringtones via SMS, something not possible with earlier Talkabout models. In addition, you can also customise a particular shortcut in the Quick Access menu.
According to sources within Motorola's Personal Communications division, the Talkabout 189 provides basic functions meeting basic consumer expectations without exceeding them. Apparently the company has done some research and decided that this Talkabout answers the needs of mass market consumers who just want a basic entry-level phone.
Thus, it will definitely appeal to those who are very pragmatic about their needs and the price, and people who want to get rid of very old handsets.
While you'd normally find the power button on the face of a Motorola phone, the power button is inconspicuously located at the top edge of the phone. Ingenious if you think of the times you'd accidentally switched on your handphone because of bad button placement.
The buttons are hard to press, but they give a good tactile feel that some people may like.
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